Brilliant Classics presents a unique 25 CD collection of the near complete works of Norway’s most famous composer, Edvard Grieg. Edvard Grieg was at the forefront of a flourishing of creativity that took place in Scandinavian culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, alongside his contemporaries, Nielsen and Sibelius. His imagination was particularly fired by the folk music and stories of his native Norway. His catchy tunes, lively rhythms and haunting musical evocations of the majestic Norwegian landscapes have made Grieg immensely popular with a wide audience. Included are the complete orchestral works: the immortal Peer Gynt, Holberg Suite, the ever popular Piano concerto and many more inspired orchestral miniatures. The Chamber music includes the Cello Sonata, de Violin Sonatas and the two String Quartets. The piano music is performed by Hakon Austbo, the recipient of the 2003 Grieg Award. This edition contains 7 CDs of his idiomatic performances. Another 7 feature Grieg’s orchestral, choral and chamber works. Performers include the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields and the Raphael Quartet. Jorge Bolet is the soloist in the famous piano concerto. The final third of this Edition is dedicated to Grieg’s 170 beautiful songs which at the time were inspired and performed by his wife Nina. Grieg also had ample opportunity to incorporate his beloved folk music in these charming and attractive songs. Performers include the Malmo Symphony Orchestra, Royal Scottish Orchestra, conductor Bjarte Engeset, pianist Havard Gimse, the Moscow Trio and soprano Marianna Hirsti.

Artists

Hakon Austbo (piano), Alexander Tchernov, Irina Popova (violins), Igor Boguslavsky (viola), Alexander Rudin (cello), Vladimir Skanavi (piano), Alexander Vinnitsky (violin), Vladimir Ovchinnikov (piano), Moscow Trio, Isa Katharina Gericke (soprano), Marianne E. Andersen (alto), Inger Dam-Jensen (soprano), Palle Knudsen (baritone), Havard Gimse (piano)

Malmo Symphony Orchestra, Malmo Chamber Choir, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Bjarte Engeset